It was discovered by an AVS Forum poster that Sony's Blu-ray Disc Player BDP-S1 has been pushed back to a target availability of "On or about December 4, 2006," marking the third delay for the product. This is small proof that Sony is indeed suspending shipments of blue diode lasers for Blu-ray movie players in favor of PlayStation 3 manufacturing (story), despite the fact that BDP-S1 will retail for a more profitable $999.95.

In another Sony delay, the company has postponed the release of its LocationFree TV Box LF-Box1, a device that will let you watch content on displays such as your TV, laptop and PSP. According a statement received by AP, the reason for delay is not due to manufacturing, but rather the need for more time to better adapt its remote controller to more models of DVD recorders and other machines the product will connect with. The delay applies to the Japanese release date, which has been pushed from October 27 to November 17. Sony still lists an October North American release for its LF-B20.

"What has become of the Sony known for its technology?" asked Akira Amari, Japan's trade minister and former Sony employee. "I hope it will solve its problems soon to quickly recover its brand image reputed for technological prowess."

When asked if Sony's reputation is suffering due to its numerous recent product delays, Sony spokeswoman Natsuki Eto said that the company decided a delay was better if the product will be compatible with more of the latest models.

"A politician stumbles over himself... Then they pick it out. They edit it. He runs the clip, and then he makes a funny face, and the whole audience has a Pavlovian response." -- Joe Scarborough on John Stewart over Jim Cramer